Prediction

Match Preview

Perth have been the stand-out team of the season after six rounds, but they were a little flat in last week’s Distance Derby against Wellington - can they return to their best form at home against an unpredictable City outfit on Saturday night?

Glory’s lead at the top of the table was cut to two points after they were forced to come from behind to draw 1-1 in Wellington, with a Diego Castro equaliser in the final 10 minute earning Perth a share of the spoils.

The only unbeaten team after six rounds, Tony Popovic has gotten off to a dream start in Perth, but heading into the busy Christmas period, he will be determined to accumulate as many points as possible - starting with this showdown against City.

Under immense pressure after dropping Bruno Fornaroli for two straight games, Warren Joyce’s decision was somewhat vindicated after City demolished Newcastle 3-0 last week.

Riley McGree and Luke Brattan scored absolute screamers to hand City a commanding half-time lead before Lachlan Wales sealed the game with a second-half strike, propelling City back up to fifth spot on the ladder.

We all know City are capable of stellar football, but inconsistency remains their biggest issue. However, if they can knock off the competition leaders away from home, they will firmly re-establish themselves as title contenders.

City will have to improve their record at nib Stadium if they want to come away with the three points - they’ve won just one of their last 10 games at the venue. Perth have won four of their last five A-League meetings, and if they’ve recovered from the flight back from New Zealand, they should be able to hold off an erratic City side.

Central Coast Mariners interim coach Alen Stajcic takes charge of his first game when the A-League's bottom side face rivals Newcastle Jets in the F3 Derby at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday.Read More

Wellington Phoenix attempt to establish some breathing in the race for a top six spot when they take on bottom-placed Central Coast Mariners to conclude A-League Round 21 action on Saturday night.Read More